‘I love WCU’ cards students filled out at the event.
Photo creds: Amber Degree
Friendships, the beautiful campus, describe what students say why they love WCU.
Free t-shirts, cake pops, hot chocolate, candy, and ‘I love WCU’ magnets were given to anyone who stopped by the table and filled out a card explaining why they love WCU.
‘I love WCU’ campaign was held on Wednesday, Feb. 15, in the University Center at WCU.
The department of Development and Alumni Engagement put together the campaign, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, to launch the month-long ‘I love WCU’ campaign throughout February.
Over 970 people came to show their love for WCU.
“The turnout has been great. We’ve had so many students stop by today. It’s so nice to see students excited about Western Carolina University,” Director of Annual Giving, Claire Burns, said. Burns said she didn’t expect the turnout to be as successful as it was because the event was moved indoors.
It was originally scheduled to be held on the UC lawn, but was moved inside due to the weather.
Student, Tiana Suddreth, who worked at the event saw it as a reward in itself.
“I wanted to give back to the WCU community that welcomed me. It was amazing to see so many students show how much they loved Western,” Suddreth said.
Last year, 19 percent of WCU employees participated in annual giving efforts and raised almost $200,000. This year, the goal is to have 25 percent or more participate.
‘I love WCU’ t-shirts given to students at the campaign. Photo taken by: Amber Degree
Student, Alisa Ring, said giving back felt like the right thing to do.
“Western is such an amazing community with amazing people. I’m honored to give back and to [show love] to my school,” Ring said.
Burns said that Department of development and alumni engagement will put ‘I love WCU’ campaign again.
“Because the turnout was so sufficient. I’m sure we will definitely be working hard to make this campaign an annual event.”
